It is with the utmost sorrow and heartbreak that the City of Reading City Council reports the passing of our beloved Council President Jeffrey S. Waltman Sr.
Council releases the following statement: “A member of this body for 22 years, Jeff was the embodiment of a true and selfless public servant. He was an empathetic leader, always hearing out both sides of an issue and working to find a solid middle ground. His financial expertise was evident in many budget cycles and he was instrumental in leading the city, through the course of four administrations, out of Act 47.
His love of nature was abundant and that love was put into action with the successful battle to save the Antietam Lake watershed, now in perpetual public preservation.
Jeff’s love for this city and its many neighborhoods he knew so well is unparalleled.
His love for his children, his little granddaughters and his brother was clear to everyone in the time he spent nurturing them. Our hearts are with all his family today and going forward. We will all miss him — his friendship, his leadership, his kindness — beyond words.
Jeff always spoke of the many “moving parts” around issues and the “picture postcard beauty” of this city. Today, he leaves us with the challenge of making those moving parts synchronize to make his beloved, beautiful Reading an even better place to be.”
Mayor Moran stated, “Council President Jeff Waltman loved his City and led with integrity and passion. As an outstanding public servant, he leaves a legacy for generations to come. Jeff will always be remembered for his efforts to find common ground in difficult situations and bring everyone together for the good of the City. He will long be remembered as a strong and dedicated City Leader, and I will miss him dearly.”
Sen. Judy Schwank issued the following statement:
“I’m incredibly saddened by the sudden passing of my friend and colleague Jeffrey Waltman, who served the City of Reading honorably for 22 years. Reading has lost a wonderful public servant and an incredible human being. During his time on council representing his district and as president and vice president, Jeff demonstrated a passion for the place he called home. He fought tirelessly for a future full of promise on behalf of the citizens of Reading. He was a champion for economic development and historic preservation in the city. He understood that the city’s rich history was worth celebrating and saw the city’s potential even during difficult times.
Even on the most contentious issues, Jeff was a patient and understanding leader on City Council with an ability to bring all stakeholders together and work towards pragmatic solutions. His leadership and business acumen helped the city navigate challenging financial situations and move beyond Act 47. Everything he did throughout his career was in pursuit of the common good for his family, friends, neighbors, and constituents. While we acknowledge his loss is painful, we can take solace in knowing his service has paved the way towards a brighter tomorrow for the City of Reading.”
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